Wed Nov 27 02:03:03 UTC 2024: ## Cyclonic Storm Brews, Triggers School Closures and Exam Postponements in Tamil Nadu
**Chennai, November 27, 2024** – Heavy rains and a brewing cyclonic storm have lashed Tamil Nadu, leading to widespread school and college closures and exam postponements across the state. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has confirmed that a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm, predicted to bring intense rainfall to coastal areas until December 1st.
Several districts, including Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Tiruchi, Pudukottai, and Ariyalur, declared holidays for schools and colleges on Wednesday in anticipation of heavy downpours. Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram declared holidays for schools only. The University of Madras and polytechnic colleges also postponed exams due to the severe weather.
Nagapattinam bore the brunt of the rainfall, recording 16.4 cm by Wednesday morning. Other heavily affected areas include Karaikal and Cuddalore, both reporting 9 cm of rainfall, and Ennore in Chennai, with 8 cm. The IMD has issued flash flood warnings for several districts, including high-risk areas in Karaikal, Puducherry, and Ariyalur.
Farmers in the Cauvery delta region reported significant damage to paddy crops, with estimates suggesting damage to over 2,000 acres. The intense rainfall is expected to continue across coastal districts, prompting authorities to remain on high alert. Well-known weather bloggers Pradeep John and K. Srikanth discussed the impact of the second phase of the Northeast monsoon with senior journalist K. Lakshmi. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are closely monitoring the developing storm’s trajectory.
First Piper 